Original Articles
Evaluating nutritional status and physiological health parameters in college going Indian females | |
Dr. Bisweswar Das, Dr. Gajendra Singh, Dr. Balaji D. Almale, Dr. Noorulla KAS | |
Background: Indicators for physiological health including BMI (body mass index), weight, and height depict the overall development of a population and are linked closely to the pattern of nutritional intake. Assessment of PEFR (Peak Expiratory Flow Rate) and blood pressure helps in assessing the disease-related health status. Existing literature data is scarce concerning anthropometric data on respiratory fitness in college-going females of India. Aim: The present study aimed to evaluate the nutritional status and physiological health parameters in college-going Indian females. Methods: The study assessed 222 college-going females aged 18-22 years who were randomly selected. In all the females, handgrip strength, PEFR, respiratory rate, body temperature, pulse rate, DBP (diastolic blood pressure), SBP (systolic blood pressure), BMI, weight, and height were assessed. All females were examined clinically for vitamin A deficiency and anemia. In these subjects, dietary practices were also assessed. Results: The study results showed that the mean BMI and PEFR in study subjects were 21.21±3.92kg/m2 and 315.5±61.04l/min. Mean handgrip strength was lesser in the non-dominant hand compared to the dominant hand with 16.20±3.98kg and 18.38±4.74kg. Mean weight and height were elevated slightly in study subjects compared to standard ICMR data. The regular diet must include a more nutritional diet as Grade I goiter and anemia were seen in 3.6% and 6.3% of study subjects respectively. Conclusion: The present study concludes that nearly half of the college-going Indian females have a healthy weight and 33% are underweight owing to various nutritional deficiencies. PEFR has poor respiratory fitness which could be improved with regular exercise. Further studies are needed to assess nutritional status and health patterns in various geographical areas. |
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